Whether you had a hard time parallel parking or slowed suddenly at the sight of a yellow light, the auto damage caused by a minor fender bender might not seem like that big of a deal. However, letting the scratch or dent go unaddressed could have more serious implications than you realize. If you’re on the fence about getting repairs, consider the following reasons why you should always head to the auto body repair shop after a minor collision.

3 Reasons to Go to the Auto Body Repair Shop After a Fender Bender

1. Rust Potential 

Perhaps you drove away from the fender bender with nothing but a paint scratch. While this might seem like an insignificant cosmetic flaw, know that your car’s paint acts as a protective shield for the metal components underneath. Once the paint is scratched or dented, the metal may be exposed to oxygen in the air and rain, which leaves it susceptible to rusting. Since rust weakens metal, the car will be at risk of gradual internal damage, which may worsen without any visual indication on the auto body. 

2. Compromised Safety

A car’s bumpers are designed to take the impact from a collision, absorbing a large part of the shock so that it doesn’t translate to the part of the car where passengers sit. This can protect you from severe injuries during an accident. Once the bumper is damaged—even just from a minor dent—your car’s ability to absorb shock properly is compromised. You need to have the bumper inspected and fixed to drive safely again.

3. Performance Decline

You should never underestimate the internal damage that a collision may have caused. After a look at the undercarriage, an auto body repair technician might find warped or bent parts. Sometimes, this deformation can affect the shape of the wheel wells, making it dangerous for the wheels to spin at all. This decline in performance could also affect the resale value of the car down the line. 

If you were involved in a fender bender, take your vehicle to Kemp Bros Body Shop in Texarkana, TX, today. They have over 45 years of experience providing auto body repairs, and they pride themselves on efficient, affordable service. Their team is both licensed and insured, so you can rest assured your vehicle is in trustworthy hands. To learn more about their work as a family-owned and -operated business, visit the website. You can also call (903) 794­-9776 to make an appointment.